U.S. patent application number 12/501946 was filed with the patent office on 2010-01-14 for phosphonium ionic liquids, compositions, methods of making and batteries formed there from.
Invention is credited to J. Adrian Hawkins, David A. Hudgins, Levi J. Irwin.
Application Number | 20100009255 12/501946 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41504304 |
Filed Date | 2010-01-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100009255 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hawkins; J. Adrian ; et
al. |
January 14, 2010 |
Phosphonium Ionic Liquids, Compositions, Methods of Making and
Batteries Formed There From
Abstract
The invention generally encompasses phosphonium ionic liquids
and compositions and their use in many applications, including but
not limited to: as electrolytes in electronic devices such as
memory devices including static, permanent and dynamic random
access memory, as battery electrolytes, as a heat transfer medium,
fuel cells and electrochromatic devices, among other applications.
In particular, the invention generally relates to phosphonium ionic
liquids, compositions and molecules possessing structural features,
wherein the molecules exhibit superior combination of thermodynamic
stability, low volatility, wide liquidus range and ionic
conductivity. The invention further encompasses methods of making
such phosphonium ionic liquids, compositions and molecules, and
operational devices and systems comprising the same.
Inventors: |
Hawkins; J. Adrian; (Denver,
CO) ; Hudgins; David A.; (Englewood, CO) ;
Irwin; Levi J.; (Denver, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MORGAN, LEWIS & BOCKIUS, LLP. (PA)
2 PALO ALTO SQUARE, 3000 EL CAMINO REAL, SUITE 700
PALO ALTO
CA
94306
US
|
Family ID: |
41504304 |
Appl. No.: |
12/501946 |
Filed: |
July 13, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61080650 |
Jul 14, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
429/200 ;
429/188; 429/199 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01G 9/2013 20130101;
H01M 10/0568 20130101; Y02E 60/10 20130101; H01G 9/022 20130101;
H01M 10/052 20130101; Y02E 60/122 20130101; H01G 9/2059 20130101;
Y02E 10/542 20130101; H01G 9/038 20130101; H01G 9/2031
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
429/200 ;
429/188; 429/199 |
International
Class: |
H01M 6/04 20060101
H01M006/04 |
Claims
1. A battery, comprising: a positive electrode; a negative
electrode; a separator between said positive and negative
electrode; and an electrolyte comprising an ionic liquid
composition, the ionic liquid composition comprising: one or more
phosphonium based cations of the general formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P wherein: R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3
and R.sup.4 are optional and each independently a substituent
group; and one or more anions.
2. The battery of claim 1 wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and
R.sup.4 are each independently a different alkyl group comprised of
2 to 14 carbon atoms.
3. The battery of claim 1 ionic wherein at least one of R.sup.1,
R.sup.2, and R.sup.3 is an aliphatic, heterocyclic moiety.
4. The battery of claim 1 wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and
R.sup.4 is an aromatic moiety.
5. The battery of claim 1 wherein R.sup.1 and either R.sup.2,
R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are aromatic moieties.
6. The battery of claim 1 wherein at least one of R.sup.1, R.sup.2,
R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 is an aromatic, heterocyclic moiety.
7. The battery of claim 1 wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the same
and are comprised of: tetramethylene phospholane, pentamethylene
phosphorinane, tetramethinyl phosphole, phospholane or
phosphorinane.
8. The battery of claim 1 wherein R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are the same
and are comprised of: phospholane, phosphorinane or phosphole.
9. The battery of claim 1 wherein at least one of R.sup.1, R.sup.2,
R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are the same and are comprised of:
tetramethylene phospholane, pentamethylene phosphorinane,
tetramethinyl phosphole, phospholane or phosphorinane.
10. The battery of claim 1 wherein at least one of R.sup.1,
R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are the same and are comprised of:
phospholane, phosphorinane or phosphole.
11. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00028##
12. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00029##
13. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00030##
14. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00031##
15. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00032##
16. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00033##
17. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00034##
18. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00035##
19. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00036##
20. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00037##
21. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00038##
22. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00039##
23. The battery of claim 1 wherein the phosphine based cation is
comprised of the formula: ##STR00040##
24. The battery of claim 11 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one of more of the following anion mixtures:
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3,
3NO.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3,
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/3O.sub.3SCF.sub.3,
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/1N(SO.sub.2CF.sub.3).sub.2.sup.-,
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/1PF.sub.6.sup.-,
1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1N(SO.sub.2CF.sub.3).sub.2.sup.-,
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-,
3O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-,
1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.sup.-,
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-/3O.sub.3SCH.sub.3.sup.-,
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.s-
up.-,
3O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.su-
b.3.sup.-, or
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-/3O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.s-
up.-.
25. The battery of claim 11 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I--,
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3, --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3,
--O.sub.2CCF.sub.3, --O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3,
--O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3, CF.sub.3BF.sub.3--,
C(CN).sub.3--, PF.sub.6--, NO.sub.3--, --O.sub.3SCH.sub.3,
--O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CHCH.sub.2, BF.sub.4--,
--O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3, --SC(O)CH.sub.3,
SO.sub.4.sup.2-, --O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.3, --O.sub.2CH,
--O.sub.2CC.sub.6H.sub.5, --OCN, or CO.sub.3.sup.2-.
26. The battery of claim 12 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one of more of the following: I.sup.-,
C(CN).sub.3.sup.-, .sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.3,
.sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3, NO.sub.3.sup.-,
CF.sub.3BF.sub.3.sup.-, .sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3, SO4
2-, or --N(CN)2.
27. The battery of claim 13 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one of more of the following: I.sup.-,
C(CN).sub.3.sup.-, --O.sub.2CCF.sub.3,
.sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 ,
.sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3, NO.sub.3.sup.-, or
.sup.-O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.
28. The battery of claim 14 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one of more of the following: I.sup.-,
.sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.3, .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 ,
.sup.-O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3, or
O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.
29. The battery of claim 15 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one of more of the following: I.sup.-,
.sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.3, .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3, or
O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.
30. The battery of claim 16 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one of more of the following: I.sup.-,
.sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.3 , .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3,
NO.sub.3.sup.-, C(CN).sub.3, or PF.sub.6.sup.-.
31. The battery of claim 17 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I.sup.-,
NO.sub.3.sup.-, or .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.
32. The battery of claim 18 wherien the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I.sup.- or
.sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.
33. The battery of claim 19 wherien the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I.sup.- or
.sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.
34. The battery of claim 20 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I.sup.-,
NO.sub.3.sup.-, or .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.
35. The battery of claim 21 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I.sup.-,
NO.sub.3.sup.-, or .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.
36. The battery of claim 22 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: I.sup.-,
NO.sub.3.sup.-, or .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.
37. The battery of claim 23 wherein the one or more anions are
comprised of any one or more of the following: Br.sup.-,
NO.sub.3.sup.-, or .sup.-N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3.,
.sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.3, or PF.sub.6.sup.-.
38. A battery, comprising: a positive electrode; a negative
electrode; a separator between said positive and negative
electrode; and an electrolyte comprising an ionic liquid
composition, the ionic liquid composition comprising: one or more
phosphine based cations, and one or more anions, wherein the ionic
liquid composition exhibits thermodynamic stability up to a
temperature of approximately 375.degree. C., and ionic conductivity
up to 10 mS/cm.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to, U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/080,650 filed on Jul.
14, 2008 entitled "Phosphonium Ionic Liquids, Compositions, Methods
of Making and Devices Formed There From," the entire disclosure of
which is incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention generally encompasses phosphonium ionic
liquids, compositions and their use in many applications, including
but not limited to: as electrolytes in electronic devices such as
memory devices including static, permanent and dynamic random
access memory, as battery electrolytes, electrolytes in
dye-sensitized solar cell, fuel cells (DSSCs), as a heat transfer
medium, high temperature reaction and/or extraction media, among
other applications. In particular, the invention relates to
phosphonium ionic liquids, compositions and molecules possessing
structural features, wherein the compositions exhibit desired
combination of at least two or more of: thermodynamic stability,
low volatility, wide liquidus range, and ionic conductivity. The
invention further encompasses methods of making such phosphonium
ionic liquids, compositions and molecules, and operational devices
and systems comprising the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Ionic liquids have received significant attention due in
part to their wide potential use and application. The term "ionic
liquid" is commonly used for salts whose melting point is
relatively low (below 100.degree. C.). Salts that are liquid at
room temperature are commonly called room-temperature ionic
liquids. Early investigators employed ionic liquids based on
dialky-imidazolium salts. For example, Wilkes et. al developed
ionic liquids based on dialkly-imidazolium salts for use with an
aluminum metal anode and chlorine cathode in an attempt to create a
battery. J. Wilkes, J. Levisky, R. Wilson, C. Hussey, Inorg. Chem,
21, 1263 (1982).
[0004] Some of the most widely studied and commonly used ionic
liquids are based on pyridinium salts, with N-alklypyridinium and
N,N'-dialylimidazolium finding significant use. Pyridinium based
ionic liquids, including N-alkyl-pyridiums and
N,N-dialkylimidazoliums, and nitrogen-based ionic liquids generally
posses thermodynamic stabilities limited to 300.degree. C., or
less, are readily distillable, and tend to have measurable vapor
pressures at temperatures significantly less than 200.degree. C.
Such properties limit their usefulness, as well as their
applications. For example, such ionic liquids are susceptible to
decomposition during back end of line (BEOL) thermal processing.
Additionally, such ionic liquids are also decomposed during other
heat-transfer processing steps which often subject the ionic
liquids to continuous thermal cycling to temperatures exceeding
300.degree. C.
[0005] The diverse nature of ionic liquids continues to be
explored, and additional uses of ionic liquids have been
considered. For example, electrochemical methods and applications
are in need of electrolytes to enhance conductivity in a variety of
devices and applications. Recent studies have been conducted in the
area of room temperature ionic liquids as a possible alternative to
conventional solvent based electrolytes.
[0006] While developments have been made, it is apparent that a
continuing need exists for new developments in ionic liquid
compositions and for materials and uses in which ionic liquids may
be employed for use in polymer-gel electrolytes in lithium ion
batteries, fuel cells, dye-sensitized solar cells and molecular
capacitors.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention broadly encompasses phosphonium ionic liquids,
compositions and their use in many applications, including but not
limited to: as electrolytes in electronic devices such as memory
devices including static, permanent and dynamic random access
memory, dye-sensitized solar cells, fuel cells, as battery
electrolytes, as a heat transfer medium, high temperature reactions
and/or extraction media, among other applications. In particular,
the invention relates to phosphonium ionic liquids, compositions
and molecules possessing structural features, wherein the
compositions exhibit desired combinations of at least two or more
of: thermodynamic stability, low volatility, wide liquidus range
and ionic conductivity.
[0008] In one aspect, an ionic liquid composition is provided,
comprising: one or more phosphonium based cations of the general
formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P
wherein: R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are optional and
each independently a substituent group; and one or more anions. In
some embodiments R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are each
independently a different alkyl group comprised of 2 to 14 carbon
atoms. In some embodiments, at least one of R.sup.1, R.sup.2,
R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 is an aliphatic, heterocyclic moiety.
Alternatively, at least one of R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and
R.sup.4 is an aromatic, heterocyclic moiety. In other embodiments,
R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the same and are comprised of:
tetramethylene phospholane, pentamethylele phosphorinane,
tetramethinyl phosphole, phospholane or phosphorinane. In another
embodiment, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are the same and are
comprised of: phospholane, phosphorinane or phosphole.
[0009] In another embodiment, an ionic liquid composition is
provided, comprising one or more phosphonium based cations, and one
or more anions, wherein the ionic liquid composition exhibits onset
temperatures greater than 400.degree. C., thermodynamic stability
greater than 375.degree. C., a liquidus range greater than
400.degree. C., and ionic conductivity up to 10 mS/cm at room
temperature.
[0010] In another aspect, the invention encompasses ionic
conducting electrolytes comprised of phosphonium based cations with
suitable anions.
[0011] Further aspects of the invention provide a battery,
comprising: a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator
between said positive and negative electrode; and an electrolyte.
The electrolyte is comprised of an ionic liquid composition, the
ionic liquid composition comprising: one or more phosphonium based
cations of the general formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P
wherein: R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are optional and
each independently a substituent group; and one or more anions. In
another embodiment, the electrolyte is characterized as an ionic
liquid composition having one or more phosphonium based cations,
and one or more anions, wherein the ionic liquid composition
exhibits onset temperatures greater than 400.degree. C.,
thermodynamic stability up to a temperature greater than
375.degree. C., a liquidus range greater than 400.degree. C., and
ionic conductivity up to 10 mS/cm at room temperature.
[0012] Embodiments of the present invention further provide a heat
transfer medium, comprising an ionic liquid composition comprising:
one or more phosphonium based cations, and one or more anions,
wherein the ionic liquid composition exhibits onset temperatures of
greater than 400.degree. C., thermodynamic stability up to a
temperature of greater than 375.degree. C., a liquidus range of
greater than 400.degree. C., and ionic conductivity up to 10
mS/cm.
[0013] The phosphonium ionic liquid compositions are useful in
forming a variety of hybrid electrical devices. For example, in one
embodiment a device is provided, comprising a first electrode, a
second electrode; and an electrolyte comprised of an ionic liquid
composition, the ionic liquid composition comprising: one or more
phosphonium based cations of the general formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P
where R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are optional and each
independently a substituent group; and one or more anions, and
wherein said electrolyte is electrically coupled to at least one of
said first and second electrodes. In some embodiments the first
electrode is comprised of redox active molecules (ReAMs).
[0014] In another embodiment a molecular storage device is
provided, comprising a working electrode and a counter electrode
configured to afford electrical capacitance; and an ion conducting
composition comprising: one or more phosphine based cations of the
general formula above and wherein the ion conducting composition is
electrically coupled to at least the working and counter
electrodes.
[0015] In another embodiment the invention encompasses a molecular
memory element that includes a switching device, a bit line and a
word line coupled to the switching device and a molecular storage
device accessible through the switching device. The molecular
storage device is capable of being placed in two or more discrete
states, wherein the molecular storage device is placed in one of
the discrete states by signals applied to the bit and word line.
The molecular storage device comprises a first electrode, a second
electrode and an electrolyte of phosphonium based cations and
suitable anions between the first and second electrode.
[0016] Another embodiment encompasses molecular memory arrays
comprising a plurality of molecular storage elements where each
molecular storage element is capable of being placed in two or more
discrete states. A plurality of bit lines and word lines are
coupled to the plurality of molecular storage elements such that
each molecular storage element is coupled to and addressable by at
least one bit line and at least one word line.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Other aspects, embodiments and advantages of the invention
will become apparent upon reading of the detailed description of
the invention and the appended claims provided below, and upon
reference to the drawings in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 depicts one reaction scheme to form a phosphonium
ionic liquid according to some embodiments of the present
invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 depicts another reaction scheme to form other
embodiments of a phosphonium ionic liquid of the present
invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 depicts another reaction scheme to form a phosphonium
ionic liquid according to other embodiments of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 4 depicts another reaction scheme to form a phosphonium
ionic liquid according to further embodiments of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) graph performed
on exemplary embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids prepared
according to Example 1;
[0023] FIG. 6A depicts a reaction scheme, and FIGS. 6B and 6C
illustrate thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and evolved gas
analysis (EGA) graphs, respectively, for exemplary embodiments of
phosphonium ionic liquids prepared according to Example 2;
[0024] FIGS. 7A and 7B are graphs illustrating thermogravimetric
analysis (TGA) and evolved gas analysis (EGA), respectively, for
exemplary embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids prepared
according to Example 3;
[0025] FIG. 8A depicts a reaction scheme, and FIG. 8B shows the
.sup.1H NMR spectrum for exemplary embodiments of phosphonium ionic
liquids prepared as described in FIG. 2 and Example 4;
[0026] FIG. 9A is a reaction scheme, and FIG. 9B is a graph showing
thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results for exemplary embodiments
of phosphonium ionic liquids prepared according to Example 5;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a graph showing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)
results for exemplary embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids
prepared according to Example 6;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a graph showing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)
results for exemplary embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids
prepared according to Example 7; and
[0029] FIG. 12A depicts a reaction scheme, and FIG. 12B is a graph
showing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results for exemplary
embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids prepared according to
Example 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0030] Overview
[0031] The present invention is generally directed to phosphonium
ionic liquids and compositions and their use in many
applications.
[0032] General Description
[0033] The invention encompasses novel phosphonium ionic liquids,
compositions and their use in many applications, including but not
limited to: as electrolytes in electronic devices such as memory
devices including static, permanent and dynamic random access
memory, as an electrolyte in capacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and
as electrochromatic (DSSC) devices. Additional applications include
use as a heat transfer medium, high temperature reaction and/or
extraction media, among other applications. In particular, the
invention relates to phosphonium ionic liquids, compositions and
molecules possessing structural features, wherein the composition
exhibits desirable combination of at least two or more of:
thermodynamic stability, low volatility, wide liquidus range, and
ionic conductivity. The invention further encompasses methods of
making such phosphonium ionic liquids, compositions and molecules,
and operational devices and systems comprising the same.
[0034] In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention
provide devices having an electrolyte comprised of phosphonium
ionic liquid compositions. In another aspect, embodiments of the
present invention provide a battery comprising an electrolyte
composition comprised of phosphonium ionic liquid compositions.
[0035] The advantageous properties of the phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions make them particularly suited for applications such as
an electrolyte in capacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and as
electrochromatic devices.
[0036] In a further aspect of the present invention, a heat
transfer medium is provided comprised of phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions. The advantageous properties of the compositions of
the present invention are well suited as a heat transfer medium,
and useful for use in processes and systems where a heat transfer
medium is employed such as extraction media, reaction solvents, and
electrochromatic devices (DSSCs).
DEFINITIONS
[0037] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"acyl" refers to an organic acid group in which the OH of the
carboxyl group is replaced by some other substituent (RCO--), such
as described herein as "R" substitutent groups. Examples include,
but are not limited to, halo, acetyl and benzoyl.
[0038] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"alkoxy group" means an --O-- alkyl group, wherein alkyl is as
defined herein. An alkoxy group can be unsubstituted or substituted
with one, two or three suitable substituents. Preferably, the alkyl
chain of an alkoxy group is from 1 to 6 carbon atoms in length,
referred to herein, for example, as "(C1-C6)alkoxy."
[0039] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, "alkyl" by
itself or as part of another substituent, refers to a saturated or
unsaturated, branched, straight-chain or cyclic monovalent
hydrocarbon radical derived by the removal of one hydrogen atom
from a single carbon atom of a parent alkane, alkene or alkyne.
Also included within the definition of an alkyl group are
cycloalkyl groups such as C5, C6 or other rings, and heterocyclic
rings with nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur or phosphorus
(heterocycloalkyl). Alkyl also includes heteroalkyl, with
heteroatoms of sulfur, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorous, and silicon
finding particular use in certain embodiments. Alkyl groups can be
optionally substituted with R groups, independently selected at
each position as described below.
[0040] Examples of alkyl groups include, but are not limited to,
(C1-C6) alkyl groups, such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl,
2-methyl-1-propyl, 2-methyl-2-propyl, 2-methyl-1-butyl,
3-methyl-1-butyl, 2-methyl-3-butyl, 2,2-dimethyl-1-propyl,
2-methyl-1-pentyl, 3-methyl-1-pentyl, 4-methyl-1-pentyl,
2-methyl-2-pentyl, 3-methyl-2-pentyl, 4-methyl-2-pentyl,
2,2-dimethyl-1-butyl, 3,3-dimethyl-1-butyl, 2-ethyl-1-butyl, butyl,
isobutyl, t-butyl, pentyl, isopentyl, neopentyl, and hexyl, and
longer alkyl groups, such as heptyl, and octyl.
[0041] The term "alkyl" is specifically intended to include groups
having any degree or level of saturation, i.e., groups having
exclusively carbon-carbon single bonds, groups having one or more
carbon-carbon double bonds, groups having one or more carbon-carbon
triple bonds and groups having mixtures of single, double and
triple carbon-carbon bonds. Where a specific level of saturation is
intended, the expressions "alkanyl," "alkenyl," and "alkynyl" are
used.
[0042] "Alkanyl" by itself or as part of another substituent,
refers to a saturated branched, straight-chain or cyclic alkyl
radical derived by the removal of one hydrogen atom from a single
carbon atom of a parent alkane. "Heteroalkanyl" is included as
described above.
[0043] "Alkenyl" by itself or as part of another substituent,
refers to an unsaturated branched, straight-chain or cyclic alkyl
radical having at least one carbon-carbon double bond derived by
the removal of one hydrogen atom from a single carbon atom of a
parent alkene. The group may be in either the cis or trans
conformation about the double bond(s). Suitable alkenyl groups
include, but are not limited to (C2-C6) alkenyl groups, such as
vinyl, allyl, butenyl, pentenyl, hexenyl, butadienyl, pentadienyl,
hexadienyl, 2-ethylhexenyl, 2-propyl-2-butenyl,
4-(2-methyl-3-butene)-pentenyl. An alkenyl group can be
unsubstituted or substituted with one or more independently
selected R groups.
[0044] "Alkynyl" by itself or as part of another substituent,
refers to an unsaturated branched, straight-chain or cyclic alkyl
radical having at least one carbon-carbon triple bond derived by
the removal of one hydrogen atom from a single carbon atom of a
parent alkyne.
[0045] Also included within the definition of "alkyl" is
"substituted alkyl". "Substituted" is usually designated herein as
"R", and refers to a group in which one or more hydrogen atoms are
independently replaced with the same or different substituent(s). R
substituents can be independently selected from, but are not
limited to, hydrogen, halogen, alkyl (including substituted alkyl
(alkylthio, alkylamino, alkoxy, etc.), cycloalkyl, substituted
cycloalkyl, cycloheteroalkyl, and substituted cycloheteroalkyl),
aryl (including substituted aryl, heteroaryl or substituted
heteroaryl), carbonyl, alcohol, amino, amido, nitro, ethers,
esters, aldehydes, sulfonyl, sulfoxyl, carbamoyl, acyl, cyano,
thiocyanato, silicon moieties, halogens, sulfur containing
moieties, phosphorus containing moieties, etc. In some embodiments,
as described herein, R substituents include redox active moieties
(ReAMs). In some embodiments, optionally R and R' together with the
atoms to which they are bonded form a cycloalkyl (including
cycloheteroalkyl) and/or cycloaryl (including cycloheteroaryl),
which can also be further substituted as desired. In the structures
depicted herein, R is hydrogen when the position is unsubstituted.
It should be noted that some positions may allow two or three
substitution groups, R, R', and R'', in which case the R, R', and
R'' groups may be either the same or different.
[0046] In some embodiments, the R groups (subunits) are used to
adjust the redox potential(s) of the subject compound. Thus, as is
more fully described below and in references cited herein, an R
group such as a redox active subunit can be added to a macrocycle,
particularly a porphyrinic macrocycle to alter its redox potential.
Certain preferred substituents include, but are not limited to,
4-chlorophenyl, 3-acetamidophenyl, 2,4-dichloro-4-trifluoromethyl,
and ferrocene (including ferrocene derivatives). When the
substituents are used for altering redox potentials, preferred
substituents provide a redox potential range of less than about 5
volts, preferably less than about 2 volts, more preferably less
than about 1 volt.
[0047] In certain embodiments, the R groups are as defined and
depicted in the figures and the text from U.S. Provisional Ser. No.
60/687,464 which is incorporated herein by reference. A number of
suitable proligands and complexes, as well as suitable
substituents, are outlined in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,212,093; 6,728,129;
6,451,942; 6,777,516; 6,381,169; 6,208,553; 6,657,884; 6,272,038;
6,484,394; and U.S. Ser. Nos. 10/040,059; 10/682,868; 10/445,977;
10/834,630; 10/135,220; 10/723,315; 10/456,321; 10/376,865; all of
which are expressly incorporated by reference, in particular for
the structures and descriptions thereof depicted therein, hereby
expressly incorporated as substituent embodiments, both for the
particular macrocycle the substituents are depicted within and for
further substituted derivatives.
[0048] By "aryl" or grammatical equivalents herein is meant an
aromatic monocyclic or polycyclic hydrocarbon moiety generally
containing 5 to 14 carbon atoms (although larger polycyclic rings
structures may be made) and any carbocyclic ketone, imine, or
thioketone derivative thereof, wherein the carbon atom with the
free valence is a member of an aromatic ring. Aromatic groups
include arylene groups and aromatic groups with more than two atoms
removed. For the purposes of this application aryl includes
heteroaryl. "Heteroaryl" means an aromatic group wherein 1 to 5 of
the indicated carbon atoms are replaced by a heteroatom chosen from
nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, phosphorus, boron and silicon wherein the
atom with the free valence is a member of an aromatic ring, and any
heterocyclic ketone and thioketone derivative thereof. Thus,
heterocycle includes both single ring and multiple ring systems,
e.g. thienyl, furyl, pyrrolyl, pyrimidinyl, indolyl, purinyl,
quinolyl, isoquinolyl, thiazolyl, imidazolyl, naphthalene,
phenanthroline, etc. Also included within the definition of aryl is
substituted aryl, with one or more substitution groups "R" as
defined herein and outlined above and herein. For example,
"perfluoroaryl" is included and refers to an aryl group where every
hydrogen atom is replaced with a fluorine atom. Also included is
oxalyl.
[0049] As used herein the term "halogen" refers to one of the
electronegative elements of group VIIA of the periodic table
(fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, astatine).
[0050] The term "nitro" refers to the NO.sub.2 group.
[0051] By "amino groups" or grammatical equivalents herein is meant
--NH2, --NHR and --NRR' groups, with R and R' independently being
as defined herein.
[0052] As used herein the term "pyridyl" refers to an aryl group
where one CH unit is replaced with a nitrogen atom.
[0053] As used herein the term "cyano" refers to the --CN
group.
[0054] As used here the term "thiocyanato" refers to the --SCN
group.
[0055] The term "sulfoxyl" refers to a group of composition RS(O)--
where R is some substitution group as defined herein, including
alkyl, (cycloalkyl, perfluoroalkyl, etc.), or aryl (e.g.,
perfluoroaryl group). Examples include, but are not limited to
methylsulfoxyl, phenylsulfoxyl, etc.
[0056] The term "sulfonyl" refers to a group of composition RSO2-
where R is a substituent group, as defined herein, with alkyl,
aryl, (including cycloalkyl, perfluoroalkyl, or perfluoroaryl
groups). Examples include, but are not limited to methylsulfonyl,
phenylsulfonyl, p-toluenesulfonyl, etc.
[0057] The term "carbamoyl" refers to the group of composition
R(R')NC(O)-- where R and R' are as defined herein, examples
include, but are not limited to N-ethylcarbamoyl,
N,N-dimethylcarbamoyl, etc.
[0058] The term "amido" refers to the group of composition
R.sup.1CON(R.sup.2)- where R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are substituents as
defined herein. Examples include, but are not limited to acetamido,
N-ethylbenzamido, etc.
[0059] The term "acyl" refers to an organic acid group in which the
OH of the carboxyl group is replaced by some other substituent
(RCO--). Examples include, but are not limited to acetyl, benzoyl,
etc.
[0060] The term "imine" refers to .dbd.NR.
[0061] In certain embodiments, when a metal is designated, e.g., by
"M" or "M.sub.n", where n is an integer, it is recognized that the
metal can be associated with a counterion.
[0062] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"amperometric device" is a device capable of measuring the current
produced in an electrochemical cell as a result of the application
of a specific field potential ("voltage").
[0063] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"aryloxy group" means an --O-- aryl group, wherein aryl is as
defined herein. An aryloxy group can be unsubstituted or
substituted with one or two suitable substituents. Preferably, the
aryl ring of an aryloxy group is a monocyclic ring, wherein the
ring comprises 6 carbon atoms, referred to herein as
"(C6)aryloxy."
[0064] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"benzyl" means --CH2-phenyl.
[0065] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"carbonyl" group is a divalent group of the formula --C(O)--.
[0066] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"coulometric device" is a device capable of measuring the net
charge produced during the application of a potential field
("voltage") to an electrochemical cell.
[0067] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"cyano" refers to the --CN group.
[0068] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"different and distinguishable" when referring to two or more
oxidation states means that the net charge on the entity (atom,
molecule, aggregate, subunit, etc.) can exist in two different
states. The states are said to be "distinguishable" when the
difference between the states is greater than thermal energy at
room temperature (e.g., 0.degree. C. to about 40.degree. C.).
[0069] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"E.sub.1/2" refers to the practical definition of the formal
potential (B.sub.o) of a redox process as defined by
B--B.sub.o+(RT/nF)ln(D.sub.ox/D.sub.red) where R is the gas
constant, T is temperature in K (Kelvin), n is the number of
electrons involved in the process, F is the Faraday constant
(96,485 Coulomb/mole), D.sub.ox is the diffusion coefficient of the
oxidized species and D.sub.red is the diffusion coefficient of the
reduced species.
[0070] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"electrically coupled" when used with reference to a storage
molecule and/or storage medium and electrode refers to an
association between that storage medium or molecule and the
electrode such that electrons move from the storage medium/molecule
to the electrode or from the electrode to the storage
medium/molecule and thereby alter the oxidation state of the
storage medium/molecule. Electrical coupling can include direct
covalent linkage between the storage medium/molecule and the
electrode, indirect covalent coupling (e.g. via a linker), direct
or indirect ionic bonding between the storage medium/molecule and
the electrode, or other bonding (e.g. hydrophobic bonding). In
addition, no actual bonding may be required and the storage
medium/molecule may simply be contacted with the electrode surface.
There also need not necessarily be any contact between the
electrode and the storage medium/molecule where the electrode is
sufficiently close to the storage medium/molecule to permit
electron tunneling between the medium/molecule and the
electrode.
[0071] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"electrochemical cell" consists minimally of a reference electrode,
a working electrode, a redox-active medium (e.g. a storage medium),
and, if necessary, some means (e.g., a dielectric) for providing
electrical conductivity between the electrodes and/or between the
electrodes and the medium. In some embodiments, the dielectric is a
component of the storage medium.
[0072] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"electrode" refers to any medium capable of transporting charge
(e.g., electrons) to and/or from a storage molecule. Preferred
electrodes are metals or conductive organic molecules. The
electrodes can be manufactured to virtually any 2-dimensional or
3-dimensional shape (e.g., discrete lines, pads, planes, spheres,
cylinders, etc.).
[0073] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"fixed electrode" is intended to reflect the fact that the
electrode is essentially stable and unmovable with respect to the
storage medium. That is, the electrode and storage medium are
arranged in an essentially fixed geometric relationship with each
other. It is of course recognized that the relationship alters
somewhat due to expansion and contraction of the medium with
thermal changes or due to changes in conformation of the molecules
comprising the electrode and/or the storage medium. Nevertheless,
the overall spatial arrangement remains essentially invariant.
[0074] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"linker" is a molecule used to couple two different molecules, two
subunits of a molecule, or a molecule to a substrate.
[0075] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, a metal is
designated by "M" or "M.sub.n," where n is an integer, it is
recognized that the metal may be associated with a counter ion.
[0076] Many of the compounds described herein utilize substituents,
generally depicted herein as "R." Suitable R groups include, but
are not limited to, hydrogen, alkyl, alcohol, aryl, amino, amido,
nitro, ethers, esters, aldehydes, sulfonyl, silicon moieties,
halogens, cyano, acyl, sulfur containing moieties, phosphorus
containing moieties, Sb, imido, carbamoyl, linkers, attachment
moieties, ReAMs and other subunits. It should be noted that some
positions may allow two substitution groups, R and R', in which
case the R and R' groups may be either the same or different, and
it is generally preferred that one of the substitution groups be
hydrogen. In some embodiments, the R groups are as defined and
depicted in the figures and the text from U.S. A number of suitable
proligands and complexes, as well as suitable substituents, are
outlined in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,212,093; 6,728,129; 6,451,942;
6,777,516; 6,381,169; 6,208,553; 6,657,884; 6,272,038; 6,484,394;
and U.S. Ser. Nos. 10/040,059; 10/682,868; 10/445,977; 10/834,630;
10/135,220; 10/723,315; 10/456,321; 10/376,865; all of which are
expressly incorporated by reference, in particular for the
structures and descriptions thereof depicted therein, hereby
expressly incorporated as substitutent embodiments, both for the
particular macrocycle the substituents are depicted within and for
further substituted derivatives.
[0077] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"sulfoxyl" refers to a group of composition RS(O)-- where R is some
alkyl, aryl, cycloalkyl, perfluoroalkyl, or perfluoroaryl group.
Examples include, but are not limited to methylsulfoxyl,
phenylsulfoxyl, etc.
[0078] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"sulfonyl" refers to a group of composition RSO.sub.2, where R is
some alkyl, aryl, cycloalkyl, perfluoroalkyl, or perfluoroaryl
group. Examples include, but are not limited to methylsulfonyl,
phenylsulfonyl, p-toluenesulfonyl, etc.
[0079] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"subunit" refers to a redox-active component of a molecule.
[0080] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"thiocyanato" refers to the --SCN group.
[0081] Phosphonium Ionic Liquids of the Invention
[0082] As described in detail herein, embodiments of novel
phosphonium ionic liquid compositions of the present invention
exhibit desirable properties and in particular a combination of at
least two or more of: high thermodynamic stability, high ionic
conductivity, wide liquidus range and low volatility. The
combination of up to, and in some embodiments, all of these four
properties at desirable levels in one composition was unexpected
and not foreseen, and provides a significant advantage over known
ionic liquid compositions. Embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids
of the present invention exhibiting such properties enable
applications and devices not previously available.
[0083] In some embodiments, phosphonium ionic liquids of the
present invention comprise phosphonium cations of selected
molecular weights and substitution patterns, coupled with selected
anion(s), to form ionic liquids with tunable combinations of
thermodynamic stability, ionic conductively, liquidus range, and
low volatility properties.
[0084] In some embodiments, by "ionic liquid" herein is meant a
salt that is in the liquid state at and below 100.degree. C. "Room
temperature" ionic liquid is further defined herein in that it is
in the liquid state at and below room temperature.
[0085] In some embodiments the present invention comprises
phosphonium ionic liquids that exhibit thermodynamic stability up
to temperatures of approximately 400.degree. C., and more usually
up to temperatures of approximately 375.degree. C. Exhibiting
thermal stability up to a temperature this high is a significant
development, and allows use of the phosphonium ionic liquids of the
present invention in a wide range of applications. Embodiments of
phosphonium ionic liquids of the present invention further exhibit
ionic conductivity up to or greater than 10 mS/cm at room
temperature. Embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids of the
present invention exhibit volatilities that are <20 % of those
exhibited by their nitrogen-based analogs. This combination of high
thermal stability, high ionic conductivity, wide liquidus range,
and low volatility, is highly desirable and was unexpected.
Generally, in the prior art ionic liquids it is found that thermal
stability and ionic conductivity exhibit an inverse relationship.
In other embodiments, the phosphonium ionic liquids exhibit
thermodynamic stability at temperatures in the range of 20.degree.
C. to 375.degree. C., and ionic conductivity of 0 mS/cm to 0.02
mS/cm. In further embodiments, the phosphonium ionic liquids
exhibit thermodynamic stability at temperatures in the range of
0.degree. C. to 300.degree. C., and ionic conductivity of 0 mS/cm
to 0.10 mS/cm.
[0086] In some embodiments, phosphonium ionic liquids are comprised
of cations having molecular weight of up to 500 Daltons. In other
embodiments, phosphonium ionic liquids are comprised of cations
having molecular weight in the range of 200 to 500 Daltons for
liquids at the lower thermal stability ranges.
[0087] Phosphonium ionic liquid compositions of the present
invention are comprised of phosphonium based cations of the general
formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P (1)
wherein:
[0088] R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are optional and each
independently a substituent group. In some embodiments, wherein the
cations are comprises of open chains, the general formula further
comprises R.sup.4.
[0089] In some embodiments R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4
are each independently an alkyl group. In one embodiment, at least
one of the alkyl groups is different from the other two. In one
embodiment none of the alkyl groups are methyl. In some
embodiments, an alkyl group is comprised of 2 to 7 carbon atoms,
more usually 1 to 6 carbon atoms. In some embodiments R.sup.1,
R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are each independently a different
alkyl group comprised of 2 to 14 carbon atoms. In some embodiments,
the alkyl groups contain no branching. In one embodiment
R.sup.1.dbd.R.sup.2 in an aliphatic, heterocyclic moiety.
Alternatively, R.sup.1.dbd.R.sup.2 in an aromatic, heterocyclic
moiety.
[0090] In some embodiments, R.sup.1 or R.sup.2 are comprised of
phenyl or substituted alkylphenyl. In some embodiments, R.sup.1 and
R.sup.2 are the same and are comprised of tetramethylene
(phospholane) or pentamethylene (phosphorinane). Alternatively,
R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the same and are comprised of tetramethinyl
(phosphole). In a further embodiment, R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are the
same and are comprised of phospholane or phosphorinane.
Additionally, in another embodiment R.sup.2 R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are
the same and are comprised of phospholane, phosphorinane or
phosphole.
[0091] In some embodiments at least one, more, of or all of
R.sup.1, R.sup.2 , R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are selected such that each
does not contain functional groups that would react with the redox
molecules (REAM) described below. In some embodiments, at least
one, more, of or all of R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 do
not contain halides, metals or O, N, P, or Sb.
[0092] In some embodiments, the alkyl group comprises from 1 to 7
carbon atoms. In other embodiments the total carbon atoms from all
alkyl groups is 12 or less. In yet other embodiments, the alkyl
group are each independently comprised of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, more
typically, from 1 to 5 carbon atoms.
[0093] In an exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00001##
[0094] In another exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00002##
[0095] In yet another exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00003##
[0096] In an additional exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations
are comprised of the following formula:
##STR00004##
[0097] In a further exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00005##
[0098] In an additional exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations
are comprised of the following formula:
##STR00006##
[0099] In an additional exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations
are comprised of the following formula:
##STR00007##
[0100] In another exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00008##
[0101] In a further exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00009##
[0102] In yet another exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations are
comprised of the following formula:
##STR00010##
[0103] In still another exemplary embodiment, phosphonium cations
are comprised of the following formula:
##STR00011##
[0104] Another exemplary provides phosphonium cations comprised of
the following formula:
##STR00012##
[0105] Further provided are phosphonium cations comprised of the
following formula:
##STR00013##
[0106] In some embodiments examples of suitable phosphine cations
include but are not limited to: di-n-propyl ethyl phosphine;
n-butyl n-propyl ethyl phoshpine; n-hexyl n-butyl ethyl phosphine;
and the like.
[0107] In other embodiments, examples of suitable phosphine cations
include but are not limited to: ethyl phospholane; n-propyl
phospholane; n-butyl phospholane; n-hexyl phopholane; and phenyl
phospholane.
[0108] In further embodiments, examples of suitable phosphine
cations include but are not limited to: ethyl phosphole; n-propyl
phosphole; n-butyl phosphole; n-hexyl phophole; and phenyl
phosphole.
[0109] In yet another embodiment, examples of suitable phosphine
cations include but are not limited to: 1-ethyl phosphacyclohexane;
n-propyl phosphacyclohexane; n-butyl phosphacyclohexane; n-hexyl
phophacyclohexane; and phenyl phosphacyclohexane.
[0110] Phosphonium ionic liquids of the present invention are
comprised of cations and anions. As will be appreciated by those of
skill in the art, there are a large variety of possible cation and
anion combinations. Phosphonium ionic liquids of the present
invention comprise cations as described above with anions that are
generally selected from compounds that are easily ion exchanged
with reagents or solvents of the general formula:
M.sup.+Im.sup.-
Wherein Im is bis-perfluoromethyl sulfonyl imide, M is a metal. In
the instance of an organic solvent, M is preferably L, K, Na,
NH.sub.4 or Ag. In the instance of aqueous solvents, M is
preferably Ag.
[0111] Many anions may be selected. In one preferred embodiment,
the anion is [bis-perfluoromethyl sulfonyl imide].
[0112] Exemplary embodiments of suitable anions include, but are
not limited to, any one or more of: NO.sub.3.sup.-,
O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-, N(SO.sub.2CF.sub.3).sub.2.sup.-,
PF.sub.6.sup.-, O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-,
O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.sup.-, O.sub.3SCH.sub.3.sup.-,
I.sup.-, C(CN).sub.3.sup.-, .sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.3,
N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3, CF.sub.3BF.sub.3,
.sup.-O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3, SO.sub.4.sup.2-,
.sup.-O.sub.2CCF.sub.3, .sup.-O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 and
dicyanamide (DCA). In another embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquids
of the present invention are comprised of a single cation-anion
pair. Alternatively, two or more phosphonium ionic liquids may be
used to form common binaries, mixed binaries, common ternaries,
mixed ternaries, and the like. Composition ranges for binaries,
terneries, etc, include from 1 ppm, up to 999,999 ppm for each
component cation and each component anion.
[0113] In one preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Tables 1A and 1B, below. Table 1A illustrates examples of
common (Cationic) Binaries:
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1A Examples Cation of Common Structure
(Cationic) Binaries ##STR00014##
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-
3NO.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/3O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/1N(SO.sub.2CF.sub.3).sub.2.sup.-
1NO.sub.3.sup.-/1PF.sub.6.sup.-
1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1N(SO.sub.2CF.sub.3).sub.2.sup.-
1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-
3O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-
1O.sub.3SCF.sub.3.sup.-/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3.sup.-
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3.sup.-/3O.sub.3SCH.sub.3.sup.-
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3--/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3--
3O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3--/1O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3--
1O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3--/3O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3--
[0114] Table 1B illustrates examples of cation and anion
combinations:
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 1B Cation Structure Anions ##STR00015##
I.sup.- --N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3
--O.sub.2CCF.sub.3 --O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3
--O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3 CF.sub.3BF.sub.3.sup.-
C(CN).sub.3.sup.- PF.sub.6.sup.- NO.sub.3.sup.- --O.sub.3SCH.sub.3
--O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CHCH.sub.2 BF.sub.4.sup.-
--O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 --SC(O)CH.sub.3
SO.sub.4.sup.2.sup.- --O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.2CH
--O.sub.2CC.sub.6H.sub.5 --OCN CO.sub.3.sup.2.sup.-
[0115] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 2 below:
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 2 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00016## I.sup.-
C(CN).sub.3.sup.- --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3 --N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
NO.sub.3.sup.- CF.sub.3BF.sub.3.sup.-
--O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 SO.sub.4.sup.2-
--N(CN).sub.2
[0116] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 3 below:
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 3 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00017## I.sup.-
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 C(CN).sub.3.sup.-
--O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 NO.sub.3.sup.-
--O.sub.2CCF.sub.3 --O.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3
[0117] In a further preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of the cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 4 below:
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 4 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00018## I.sup.-
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.3SC.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.3
--O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3
[0118] In yet a further preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic
liquid compositions are comprised of the cation and anion
combinations as shown in Table 5 below:
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 5 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00019## I.sup.-
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3
--O.sub.3SCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3
[0119] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of the cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 6 below:
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 6 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00020## I.sup.-
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3 NO.sub.3.sup.-
C(CN).sub.3.sup.- PF.sub.6.sup.-
[0120] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 7 below:
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 7 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00021## I.sup.-
NO.sub.3.sup.- --N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
[0121] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 8 below:
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 8 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00022## I.sup.-
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
[0122] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 9 below:
TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 9 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00023## I.sup.-
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
[0123] In another preferred embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations as
shown in Table 10 below:
TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 10 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00024##
I.sup.- NO.sub.3.sup.- --N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
[0124] Additional preferred embodiments include phosphonium ionic
liquid compositions are comprised of cation and anion combinations
as shown in Table 11 below:
TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 11 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00025##
I.sup.- NO.sub.3.sup.- --N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
[0125] Provided are further preferred embodiments of phosphonium
ionic liquid compositions comprised of cation and anion
combinations as shown in Table 12 below:
TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 12 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00026##
I.sup.- NO.sub.3.sup.- --N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3
[0126] Another preferred exemplary embodiment includes phosphonium
ionic liquid compositions comprised of cation and anion
combinations as shown in Table 13 below:
TABLE-US-00014 TABLE 13 Cation Structure Anions ##STR00027## Br--
--N(SO.sub.2).sub.2CF.sub.3 --O.sub.3SCF.sub.3 PF.sub.6.sup.-
NO.sub.3.sup.-
[0127] In some embodiments further examples of suitable phosphonium
ionic liquid compositions include but are not limited to:
di-n-propyl ethyl methyl phosphonium bis-(trifluoromethyl
sulfonyl)imide; n-butyl n-propyl ethyl methyl phosphonium
bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide; n-hexly n-butyl ethyl methyl
phosphonium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide; and the like.
[0128] Illustrative examples of suitable phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions further include but are not limited to:
1-ethyl-1-methyl phospholanium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide;
n-propyl methyl phospholanium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide;
n-butyl methyl phospholanium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide;
n-hexyl methyl phopholanium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide;
and phenyl methyl phospholanium bis-(trifluoromethyl
sulfonyl)imide.
[0129] In another embodiment, examples of suitable phosphonium
ionic liquid compositions include but are not limited to:
1-ethyl-1-methyl phospholium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide;
n-propyl methyl phospholium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide;
n-butyl methyl phospholium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl imide;
n-hexyl methyl phopholium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide; and
phenyl methyl phospholium bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide.
[0130] Further exemplary embodiments of suitable phosphonium ionic
liquid compositions include but are not limited to:
1-ethyl-1-methyl phosphacyclohexane bis-(trifluoromethyl
sulfonyl)imide; n-propyl methyl phosphacyclohexane
bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide; n-butyl methyl
phosphacyclohexane bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide; n-hexyl
methyl phosphacyclohexane bis-(trifluoromethyl sulfonyl)imide; and
phenyl methyl phosphacyclohexane bis-(trifluoromethyl
sulfonyl)imide.
[0131] Phosphonium ionic liquids of the present invention may also
form a eutectic from one or more solids, or from a solid and a
liquid, according to some embodiments. In this instance, the term
"ionic liquid" is further defined to include ionic liquid that are
eutectics from ionic solids, or from an ionic liquid and an ionic
solid, such as binaries, ternaries, and the like.
[0132] Redox-Active Molecules
[0133] Phosphorus ionic liquids of the present invention described
herein can be employed to synthesize a wide range of hybrid
components and/or devices, such as for example memory devices and
elements. In an exemplary embodiment, phosphonium ionic liquids
herein are used to form molecular memory devices where information
is stored in a redox-active information storage molecule.
[0134] The term "redox-active molecule (ReAM)" herein is meant to
refer to a molecule or component of a molecule that is capable of
being oxidized or reduced, e.g., by the application of a suitable
voltage. As described below, ReAMs can include, but are not limited
to macrocycles including porphyrin and porphyrin derivatives, as
well as non-macrocyclic compounds, and includes sandwich compounds,
e.g. as described herein. In certain embodiments, ReAMs can
comprise multiple subunits, for example, in the case of dyads or
triads. ReAMs can include ferrocenes, Bipys, PAHs, viologens, and
the like. In general, as described below, there are several types
of ReAMs useful in the present invention, all based on polydentate
proligands, including macrocyclic and non-macrocyclic moieties. A
number of suitable proligands and complexes, as well as suitable
substituents, are outlined in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,212,093; 6,728,129;
6,451,942; 6,777,516; 6,381,169; 6,208,553; 6,657,884; 6,272,038;
6,484,394; and U.S. Ser. Nos. 10/040,059; 10/682,868; 10/445,977;
10/834,630; 10/135,220; 10/723,315; 10/456,321; 10/376,865; all of
which are expressly incorporated by reference, in particular for
the structures and descriptions thereof depicted therein.
[0135] Suitable proligands fall into two categories: ligands which
use nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, carbon or phosphorus atoms (depending
on the metal ion) as the coordination atoms (generally referred to
in the literature as sigma (.sigma.) donors) and organometallic
ligands such as metallocene ligands (generally referred to in the
literature as pi (.pi.) donors, and depicted herein as Lm).
[0136] In addition, a single ReAM may have two or more redox
active. For example, FIG. 13A of U.S. Publication No. 2007/0108438
shows two redox active subunits, a porphurin (shown in the absence
of a metal), and ferrocense. Similarly, sandwich coordination
compounds are considered a single ReAM. This is to be distinguished
from the case where these ReAMs are polymerized as monomers. In
addition, the metal ions/complexes of the invention may be
associated with a counterion, not generally depicted herein.
[0137] Macrocyclic Ligands
[0138] In one embodiment, the ReAM is a macrocyclic ligand, which
includes both macrocyclic proligands and macrocyclic complexes. By
"macrocyclic proligand" herein is meant a cyclic compound which
contain donor atoms (sometimes referred to herein as "coordination
atoms") oriented so that they can bind to a metal ion and which are
large enough to encircle the metal atom. In general, the donor
atoms are heteroatoms including, but not limited to, nitrogen,
oxygen and sulfur, with the former being especially preferred.
However, as will be appreciated by those in the art, different
metal ions bind preferentially to different heteroatoms, and thus
the heteroatoms used can depend on the desired metal ion. In
addition, in some embodiments, a single macrocycle can contain
heteroatoms of different types.
[0139] A "macrocyclic complex" is a macrocyclic proligand with at
least one metal ion; in some embodiments the macrocyclic complex
comprises a single metal ion, although as described below,
polynucleate complexes, including polynucleate macrocyclic
complexes, are also contemplated.
[0140] A wide variety of macrocyclic ligands find use in the
present invention, including those that are electronically
conjugated and those that may not be; however, the macrocyclic
ligands of the invention preferably have at least one, and
preferably two or more oxidation states, with 4, 6 and 8 oxidation
states being of particular significance.
[0141] A broad schematic of suitable macrocyclic ligands are shown
and described in FIGS. 11 and 14 of U.S. Publication No.
2007/0108438, all of which is incorporated by reference herein in
addition to FIGS. 11 and 14. In this embodiment, roughly based on
porphyrins, a 16 member ring (when the --X-moiety contains a single
atom, either carbon or a heteroatom), 17 membered rings (where one
of the --X-moieties contains two skeletal atoms), 18 membered rings
(where two of the --X-moieties contains two skeletal atoms), 19
membered rings (where three of the --X-moieties contains two
skeletal atoms) or 20 membered rings (where all four of the
--X-moieties contains two skeletal atoms), are all contemplated.
Each --X-group is independently selected. The -Q- moiety, together
with the skeletal --C-heteroatom --C (with either single or double
bonds independently connecting the carbons and heteroatom) for 5 or
6 membered rings that are optionally substituted with 1 or 2 (in
the case of 5 membered rings) or 1, 2, or 3 (in the case of 6
membered rings) with independently selected R2 groups. In some
embodiments, the rings, bonds and substitutents are chosen to
result in the compound being electronically conjugated, and at a
minimum to have at least two oxidation states.
[0142] In some embodiments, the macrocyclic ligands of the
invention are selected from the group consisting of porphyrins
(particularly porphyrin derivatives as defined below), and cyclen
derivatives.
[0143] Porphyrins
[0144] A particularly preferred subset of macrocycles suitable in
the invention are porphyrins, including porphyrin derivatives. Such
derivatives include porphyrins with extra rings ortho-fused, or
ortho-perifused, to the porphyrin nucleus, porphyrins having a
replacement of one or more carbon atoms of the porphyrin ring by an
atom of another element (skeletal replacement), derivatives having
a replacement of a nitrogen atom of the porphyrin ring by an atom
of another element (skeletal replacement of nitrogen), derivatives
having substituents other than hydrogen located at the peripheral
(meso-, (3- or core atoms of the porphyrin, derivatives with
saturation of one or more bonds of the porphyrin (hydroporphyrins,
e.g., chlorins, bacteriochlorins, isobacteriochlorins,
decahydroporphyrins, corphins, pyrrocorphins, etc.), derivatives
having one or more atoms, including pyrrolic and pyrromethenyl
units, inserted in the porphyrin ring (expanded porphyrins),
derivatives having one or more groups removed from the porphyrin
ring (contracted porphyrins, e.g., corrin, corrole) and
combinations of the foregoing derivatives (e.g. phthalocyanines,
sub-phthalocyanines, and porphyrin isomers). Additional suitable
porphyrin derivatives include, but are not limited to the
chlorophyll group, including etiophyllin, pyrroporphyrin,
rhodoporphyrin, phylloporphyrin, phylloerythrin, chlorophyll a and
b, as well as the hemoglobin group, including deuteroporphyrin,
deuterohemin, hemin, hematin, protoporphyrin, mesohemin,
hematoporphyrin mesoporphyrin, coproporphyrin, uruporphyrin and
turacin, and the series of tetraarylazadipyrromethines.
[0145] As is true for the compounds outlined herein, and as will be
appreciated by those in the art, each unsaturated position, whether
carbon or heteroatom, can include one or more substitution groups
as defined herein, depending on the desired valency of the
system.
[0146] In one preferred embodiment, the redox-active molecule may
be a metallocene, which can be substituted at any appropriate
position, using R groups independently selected herein. A
metallocene which finds particular use in the invention includes
ferrocene and its derivatives. In this embodiment, preferred
substituents include, but are not limited to, 4chlorophenyl,
3-acetamidophenyl, 2,4-dichloro-4-trifluoromethyl. Preferred
substituents provide a redox potential range of less than about 2
volts.
[0147] It will be appreciated that the oxidation potentials of the
members of the series can be routinely altered by changing the
metal (M) or the substituents.
[0148] Another example of a redox-active molecule comprised of a
porphyrin is shown in FIG. 12H of U.S. Publication No. 2007/018438
where F is a redox-active subunit (such as ferrocense, a
substituted ferrocene, a metalloporphyrin, or a metallochlorin, and
the like), J1 is a linker, M is a metal (such as Zn, Mg, Cd, Hg,
Cu, Ag, Au, Ni, Pd, Pt, Co, Rh, Ir, Mn, B, Al, Ga, Pb and Sn) S1
and S2 are independently selected from the group of aryl, phenyl,
cyclalkyl, alkyl, halogen, alkoxy, alkythio, perfluoroalkyl,
perfluoroaryl, pyridyl, cyano, thiocyanato, nitro, amino,
alkylamino, acyl, sulfoxyl, sulfonyl, imido, amido, and carbamoyl
wherein said substituents provide a redox potential range of less
than about 2 volts, K1, K2, K3 and K4 are independently selected
from the group of N, O, S, Se, Te and CH; L is a linker, X is
selected from the group of a substrate, a couple to a substrate,
and a reactive site that can ionically couple to a substrate. In
preferred embodiments, X or L-X may be an alcohol or a thiol. In
some embodiments, L-X can be eliminated and replaced with a
substituent independently selected from the same group as S1 or
S2.
[0149] Control over the hole-storage and hole-hopping properties of
the redox-active units of the redox-active molecules used in the
memory devices of the present invention allows fine control over
the architecture of the memory device.
[0150] Such control is exercised through synthetic design. The
hole-storage properties depend on the oxidation potential of the
redox-active units or subunits that are themselves or are that are
used to assemble the storage media used in the devices of this
invention. The hole-storage properties and redox potential can be
tuned with precision by choice of base molecule(s), associated
metals and peripheral substituents (Yang et al. (1999) J.
Porphyrins Phthalocyanines, 3: 117-147), the disclosure of which is
herein incorporated by this reference.
[0151] For example, in the case of porphyrins, Mg porphyrins are
more easily oxidized than Zn porphyrins, and electron withdrawing
or electron releasing aryl groups can modulate the oxidation
properties in predictable ways. Hole-hopping occurs among
isoenergetic porphyrins in a nanostructure and is mediated via the
covalent linker joining the porphyrins (Seth et al. (1994) J. Am.
Chem. Soc., 116: 10578-10592, Seth et al (1996) J. Am. Chem. Soc.,
118: 11194-11207, Strachan et al. (1997) J. Am. Chem. Soc., 119:
11191-11201; Li et al. (1997) J. Mater. Chem., 7: 1245-1262,
Strachan et al. (1998) Inorg. Chem., 37: 1191-1201, Yang et al.
(1999) J. Am. Chem. Soc., 121: 4008-4018), the disclosures of which
are herein specifically incorporated by this reference in their
entirety.
[0152] The design of compounds with predicted redox potentials is
well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In general, the
oxidation potentials of redox-active units or subunits are well
known to those of skill in the art and can be looked up (see, e.g.,
Handbook of Electrochemistry of the Elements). Moreover, in
general, the effects of various substituents on the redox
potentials of a molecule are generally additive. Thus, a
theoretical oxidation potential can be readily predicted for any
potential data storage molecule. The actual oxidation potential,
particularly the oxidation potential of the information storage
molecule(s) or the information storage medium can be measured
according to standard methods. Typically the oxidation potential is
predicted by comparison of the experimentally determined oxidation
potential of a base molecule and that of a base molecule bearing
one substituent in order to determine the shift in potential due to
that particular substituent. The sum of such substituent-dependent
potential shifts for the respective substituents then gives the
predicted oxidation potential.
[0153] The suitability of particular redox-active molecules for use
in the methods of this invention can readily be determined. The
molecule(s) of interest are simply polymerized and coupled to a
surface (e.g., a hydrogen passivated surface) according to the
methods of this invention. Then sinusoidal voltammetry can be
performed (e.g., as described herein or in U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,272,038; 6,212,093; and 6,208,553, PCT Publication WO 01/03126,
or by (Roth et al. (2000) Vac. Sci. Technol. B 18:2359-2364; Roth
et al. (2003) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 125:505-517) to evaluate 1) whether
or not the molecule(s) coupled to the surface, 2) the degree of
coverage (coupling); 3) whether or not the molecule(s) are degraded
during the coupling procedure, and 4) the stability of the
molecule(s) to multiple read/write operations.
[0154] In addition, included within the definition of "porphyrin"
are porphyrin complexes, which comprise the porphyrin proligand and
at least one metal ion. Suitable metals for the porphyrin compounds
will depend on the heteroatoms used as coordination atoms, but in
general are selected from transition metal ions. The term
"transition metals" as used herein typically refers to the 38
elements in groups 3 through 12 of the periodic table. Typically
transition metals are characterized by the fact that their valence
electrons, or the electrons they use to combine with other
elements, are present in more than one shell and consequently often
exhibit several common oxidation states. In certain embodiments,
the transition metals of this invention include, but are not
limited to one or more of scandium, titanium, vanadium, chromium,
manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, yttrium, zirconium,
niobium, molybdenum, technetium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium,
silver, cadmium, hafnium, tantalum, tungsten, rhenium, osmium,
iridium, platinum, gold, mercury, rutherfordium, and/or oxides,
and/or nitrides, and/or alloys, and/or mixtures thereof.
[0155] Other Macrocycles
[0156] There are a number of macrocycles based on cyclen
derivatives. FIGS. 17 and 13C of U.S. Publication No. 2007/0108438
shows a number of macrocyclic proligands loosely based on
cyclen/cyclam derivatives, which can include skeletal expansion by
the inclusion of independently selected carbons or heteroatoms. In
some embodiments, at least one R group is a redox active subunit,
preferably electronically conjugated to the metal. In some
embodiments, including when at least one R group is a redox active
subunit, two or more neighboring R2 groups form cycle or an aryl
group.
[0157] Furthermore, in some embodiments, macrocyclic complexes
relying organometallic ligands are used. In addition to purely
organic compounds for use as redox moieties, and various transition
metal coordination complexes with .delta.-bonded organic ligand
with donor atoms as heterocyclic or exocyclic substituents, there
is available a wide variety of transition metal organometallic
compounds with .pi.-bonded organic ligands (see Advanced Inorganic
Chemistry, 5th Ed., Cotton & Wilkinson, John Wiley & Sons,
1988, chapter 26; Organometallics, A Concise Introduction,
Elschenbroich et al., 2nd Ed., 1992, VCH; and Comprehensive
Organometallic Chemistry II, A Review of the Literature 1982-1994,
Abel et al. Ed., Vol. 7, chapters 7, 8, 10 & 11, Pergamon
Press, hereby expressly incorporated by reference). Such
organometallic ligands include cyclic aromatic compounds such as
the cyclopentadienide ion [C5H5(-1)] and various ring substituted
and ring fused derivatives, such as the indenylide (-1) ion, that
yield a class of bis(cyclopentadieyl)metal compounds, (i.e. the
metallocenes); see for example Robins et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc.
104:1882-1893 (1982); and Gassman et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc.
108:4228-4229 (1986), incorporated by reference. Of these,
ferrocene [(C5H5)2Fe] and its derivatives are prototypical examples
which have been used in a wide variety of chemical (Connelly et
al., Chem. Rev. 96:877-910 (1996), incorporated by reference) and
electrochemical (Geiger et al., Advances in Organometallic
Chemistry 23:1-93; and Geiger et al., Advances in Organometallic
Chemistry 24:87, incorporated by reference) electron transfer or
"redox" reactions. Metallocene derivatives of a variety of the
first, second and third row transition metals are useful as redox
moieties (and redox subunits). Other potentially suitable
organometallic ligands include cyclic arenes such as benzene, to
yield bis(arene)metal compounds and their ring substituted and ring
fused derivatives, of which bis(benzene)chromium is a prototypical
example, Other acyclic .pi.-bonded ligands such as the allyl(-1)
ion, or butadiene yield potentially suitable organometallic
compounds, and all such ligands, in conjuction with other
.pi.-bonded and .delta.-bonded ligands constitute the general class
of organometallic compounds in which there is a metal to carbon
bond. Electrochemical studies of various dimers and oligomers of
such compounds with bridging organic ligands, and additional
non-bridging ligands, as well as with and without metal-metal bonds
are all useful.
[0158] When one or more of the co-ligands is an organometallic
ligand, the ligand is generally attached via one of the carbon
atoms of the organometallic ligand, although attachment may be via
other atoms for heterocyclic ligands. Preferred organometallic
ligands include metallocene ligands, including substituted
derivatives and the metalloceneophanes (see page 1174 of Cotton and
Wilkenson, supra). For example, derivatives of metallocene ligands
such as methylcyclopentadienyl, with multiple methyl groups being
preferred, such as pentamethylcyclopentadienyl, can be used to
increase the stability of the metallocene. In some embodiments, the
metallocene is derivatized with one or more substituents as
outlined herein, particularly to alter the redox potential of the
subunit or moiety.
[0159] As described herein, any combination of ligands may be used.
Preferred combinations include: a) all ligands are nitrogen
donating ligands; b) all ligands are organometallic ligands.
[0160] Sandwich Coordination Complexes
[0161] In some embodiments, the ReAMs are sandwich coordination
complexes. The terms "sandwich coordination compound" or "sandwich
coordination complex" refer to a compound of the formula L-Mn-L,
where each L is a heterocyclic ligand (as described below), each M
is a metal, n is 2 or more, most preferably 2 or 3, and each metal
is positioned between a pair of ligands and bonded to one or more
hetero atom (and typically a plurality of hetero atoms, e.g., 2, 3,
4, 5) in each ligand (depending upon the oxidation state of the
metal). Thus sandwich coordination compounds are not organometallic
compounds such as ferrocene, in which the metal is bonded to carbon
atoms. The ligands in the sandwich coordination compound are
generally arranged in a stacked orientation (i.e., are generally
cofacially oriented and axially aligned with one another, although
they may or may not be rotated about that axis with respect to one
another) (see, e.g., Ng and Jiang (1997) Chemical Society Reviews
26: 433-442) incorporated by reference. Sandwich coordination
complexes include, but are not limited to "double-decker sandwich
coordination compound" and "triple-decker sandwich coordination
compounds". The synthesis and use of sandwich coordination
compounds is described in detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,212,093;
6,451,942; 6,777,516; and polymerization of these molecules is
described in U.S. Publication No. 2007/0123618, all of which are
included herein, particularly the individual substitutent groups
that find use in both sandwich complexes and the "single"
macrocycle" complexes.
[0162] The term "double-decker sandwich coordination compound"
refers to a sandwich coordination compound as described above where
n is 2, thus having the formula L'-M'-LZ, wherein each of L1 and LZ
may be the same or different (see, e.g., Jiang et al. (1999) J.
Porphyrins Phthalocyanines 3: 322-328) and U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,212,093; 6,451,942; 6,777,516; and polymerization of these
molecules is described in U.S. Publication No. 2007/0123618, hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0163] The term "triple-decker sandwich coordination compound"
refers to a sandwich coordination compound as described above where
n is 3, thus having the formula L'-M'LZ-MZ-L3, wherein each of L1,
LZ and L3 may be the same or different, and M1 and MZ may be the
same or different (see, e.g., Arnold et al. (1999) Chemistry
Letters 483-484), and U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,212,093; 6,451,942;
6,777,516; and polymerization of these molecules is described in
U.S. Publication No. 2007/0123618, hereby incorporated by reference
in their entirety.
[0164] In addition, polymers of these sandwich compounds are also
of use; this includes "dyads" and "triads" as described in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 6,212,093; 6,451,942; 6,777,516; and polymerization of
these molecules is described in U.S. Publication No. 2007/0123618,
incorporated by reference.
[0165] Non-Macrocyclic Proligands and Complexes
[0166] As a general rule, ReAMs comprising non-macrocyclic
chelators are bound to metal ions to form non-macrocyclic chelate
compounds, since the presence of the metal allows for multiple
proligands to bind together to give multiple oxidation states.
[0167] In some embodiments, nitrogen donating proligands are used.
Suitable nitrogen donating proligands are well known in the art and
include, but are not limited to, NH2; NHR; NRR'; pyridine;
pyrazine; isonicotinamide; imidazole; bipyridine and substituted
derivatives of bipyridine; terpyridine and substituted derivatives;
phenanthrolines, particularly 1,10-phenanthroline (abbreviated
phen) and substituted derivatives of phenanthrolines such as
4,7-dimethylphenanthroline and dipyridol[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine
(abbreviated dppz); dipyridophenazine;
1,4,5,8,9,12-hexaazatriphenylene (abbreviated hat);
9,10-phenanthrenequinone diimine (abbreviated phi);
1,4,5,8-tetraazaphenanthrene (abbreviated tap);
1,4,8,11-tetra-azacyclotetradecane (abbreviated cyclam) and
isocyanide. Substituted derivatives, including fused derivatives,
may also be used. It should be noted that macrocylic ligands that
do not coordinatively saturate the metal ion, and which require the
addition of another proligand, are considered non-macrocyclic for
this purpose. As will be appreciated by those in the art, it is
possible to covalent attach a number of "non-macrocyclic" ligands
to form a coordinatively saturated compound, but that is lacking a
cyclic skeleton.
[0168] Suitable sigma donating ligands using carbon, oxygen, sulfur
and phosphorus are known in the art. For example, suitable sigma
carbon donors are found in Cotton and Wilkenson, Advanced Organic
Chemistry, 5th Edition, John Wiley & Sons, 1988, hereby
incorporated by reference; see page 38, for example. Similarly,
suitable oxygen ligands include crown ethers, water and others
known in the art. Phosphines and substituted phosphines are also
suitable; see page 38 of Cotton and Wilkenson.
[0169] The oxygen, sulfur, phosphorus and nitrogen-donating ligands
are attached in such a manner as to allow the heteroatoms to serve
as coordination atoms.
[0170] Polynucleating Proligands and Complexes
[0171] In addition, some embodiments utilize polydentate ligands
that are polynucleating ligands, e.g. they are capable of binding
more than one metal ion. These may be macrocyclic or
non-macrocyclic.
[0172] A number of suitable proligands and complexes, as well as
suitable substituents, are outlined in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,212,093;
6,728,129; 6,451,942; 6,777,516; 6,381,169; 6,208,553; 6,657,884;
6,272,038; 6,484,394; and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.
10/040,059; 10/682,868; 10/445,977; 10/834,630; 10/135,220;
10/723,315; 10/456,321; 10/376,865; all of which are expressly
incorporated by reference, in particular for the structures and
descriptions thereof depicted therein.
[0173] Applications and Uses of the Phosphonium Ionic Liquids
[0174] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"memory element," "memory cell," or "storage cell" refer to an
electrochemical cell that can be used for the storage of
information. Preferred "storage cells" are discrete regions of
storage medium addressed by at least one and preferably by two
electrodes (e.g., a working electrode and a reference electrode).
The storage cells can be individually addressed (e.g., a unique
electrode is associated with each memory element) or, particularly
where the oxidation states of different memory elements are
distinguishable, multiple memory elements can be addressed by a
single electrode. The memory element can optionally include a
dielectric (e.g., a dielectric impregnated with counter ions).
[0175] As used herein the term "electrode" refers to any medium
capable of transporting charge (e.g., electrons) to and/or from a
storage molecule. Preferred electrodes are metals and conductive
organic molecules, including, but not limited to, Group III
elements (including doped and oxidized Group III elements), Group
IV elements (including doped and oxidized Group IV elements), Group
V elements (including doped and oxidized Group V elements) and
transition metals (including transition metal oxides and transition
metal nitrides). The electrodes can be manufactured to virtually
and 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional shape (e.g., discrete lines,
pads, planes, spheres, cylinders).
[0176] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"multiple oxidation states" means more than one oxidation state. In
preferred embodiments, the oxidation states may reflect the gain of
electrons (reduction) or the loss of electrons (oxidation).
[0177] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"multiporphyrin array" refers to a discrete number of two or more
covalently-linked porphyrinic macrocycles. The multiporphyrin
arrays can be linear, cyclic, or branched.
[0178] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"output of an integrated circuit" refers to a voltage or signal
produced by one or more integrated circuit(s) and/or one or more
components of an integrated circuit.
[0179] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"present on a single plane," when used in reference to a memory
device of this invention refers to the fact that the component(s)
(e.g. storage medium, electrode(s), etc.) in question are present
on the same physical plane in the device (e.g. are present on a
single lamina). Components that are on the same plane can typically
be fabricated at the same time, e.g., in a single operation. Thus,
for example, all of the electrodes on a single plane can typically
be applied in a single (e.g., sputtering) step (assuming they are
all of the same material).
[0180] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, a
potentiometric device is a device capable of measuring potential
across an interface that results from a difference in the
equilibrium concentrations of redox molecules in an electrochemical
cell.
[0181] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"oxidation" refers to the loss of one or more electrons in an
element, compound, or chemical substituent/subunit. In an oxidation
reaction, electrons are lost by atoms of the element(s) involved in
the reaction. The charge on these atoms must then become more
positive. The electrons are lost from the species undergoing
oxidation and so electrons appear as products in an oxidation
reaction. An oxidation taking place in the reaction
Fe.sup.2+(aq).fwdarw.Fe.sup.3+(aq)+e.sup.- because electrons are
lost from the species being oxidized, Fe.sup.2+(aq), despite the
apparent production of electrons as "free" entities in oxidation
reactions. Conversely the term reduction refers to the gain of one
or more electrons by an element, compound, or chemical
substituent/subunit.
[0182] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"oxidation state" refers to the electrically neutral state or to
the state produced by the gain or loss of electrons to an element,
compound, or chemical substituent/subunit. In a preferred
embodiment, the term "oxidation state" refers to states including
the neutral state and any state other than a neutral state caused
by the gain or loss of electrons (reduction or oxidation).
[0183] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"read" or "interrogate" refer to the determination of the oxidation
state(s) of one or more molecules (e.g. molecules comprising a
storage medium).
[0184] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"redox-active unit" or "redox-active subunit" refers to a molecule
or component of a molecule that is capable of being oxidized or
reduced by the application of a suitable voltage.
[0185] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the terms
"read" or "interrogate" refer to the determination of the oxidation
state(s) of one or more molecules (e.g. molecules comprising a
storage medium).
[0186] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"refresh" when used in reference to a storage molecule or to a
storage medium refers to the application of a voltage to the
storage molecule or storage medium to re-set the oxidation state of
that storage molecule or storage medium to a predetermined state
(e.g., the oxidation state the storage molecule or storage medium
was in immediately prior to a read).
[0187] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"reference electrode" is used to refer to one or more electrodes
that provide a reference (e.g., a particular reference voltage) for
measurements recorded from the working electrode. In preferred
embodiments, the reference electrodes in a memory device of this
invention are at the same potential although in some embodiments
this need not be the case.
[0188] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, a "sinusoidal
voltammeter" is a voltammetric device capable of determining the
frequency domain properties of an electrochemical cell.
[0189] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"storage density" refers to the number of bits per volume and/or
bits per molecule that can be stored. When the storage medium is
said to have a storage density greater than one bit per molecule,
this refers to the fact that a storage medium preferably comprises
molecules wherein a single molecule is capable of storing at least
one bit of information.
[0190] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"storage location" refers to a discrete domain or area in which a
storage medium is disposed. When addressed with one or more
electrodes, the storage location may form a storage cell. However
if two storage locations contain the same storage media so that
they have essentially the same oxidation states, and both storage
locations are commonly addressed, they may form one functional
storage cell.
[0191] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"storage medium" refers to a composition comprising a storage
molecule of the invention, preferably bonded to a substrate.
[0192] A substrate is a, preferably solid, material suitable for
the attachment of one or more molecules. Substrates can be formed
of materials including, but not limited to glass, plastic, silicon,
minerals (e.g., quartz), semiconducting materials, ceramics,
metals, etc.
[0193] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"voltammetric device" is a device capable of measuring the current
produced in an electrochemical cell as a result of the application
of a voltage or change in voltage.
[0194] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, a voltage
source is any source (e.g. molecule, device, circuit, etc.) capable
of applying a voltage to a target (e.g., an electrode).
[0195] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term
"working electrode" is used to refer to one or more electrodes that
are used to set or read the state of a storage medium and/or
storage molecule.
[0196] Devices
[0197] Some embodiments of the phosphonium ionic liquid
compositions of the present invention are useful in forming a
variety of hybrid electrical devices. For example, in one
embodiment a device is provided, comprising a first electrode, a
second electrode; and an electrolyte comprised of an ionic liquid
composition, the ionic liquid composition comprising: one or more
phosphonium based cations of the general formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P
where R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are optional and each
independently a substituent group; and one or more anions, and
wherein said electrolyte is electrically coupled to at least one of
said first and second electrodes. In some embodiment the first
electrode is comprised redox active molecules (ReAMs) as described
in detail above.
[0198] In another embodiment a molecular storage device is
provided, comprising a working electrode and a counter electrode
configured to afford electrical capacitance; and an ion conducting
composition comprising: one or more phosphine based cations of the
general formula above and wherein the ion conducting composition is
electrically coupled to at least the working and counter
electrodes.
[0199] In another embodiment the invention encompasses a molecular
memory element that includes a switching device, a bit line and a
word line coupled to the switching device and a molecular storage
device accessible through the switching device. The molecular
storage device is capable of being placed in two or more discrete
states, wherein the molecular storage device is placed in one of
the discrete states by signals applied to the bit and word line.
The molecular storage device comprises a first electrode, a second
electrode and an electrolyte of phosphonium based cations and
suitable anions between the first and second electrode. Another
embodiment encompasses molecular memory arrays comprising a
plurality of molecular storage elements where each molecular
storage element is capable of being placed in two or more discrete
states. A plurality of bit lines and word lines are coupled to the
plurality of molecular storage elements such that each molecular
storage element is coupled to and addressable by at least one bit
line and at least one word line.
[0200] The molecular memory device may include an addressable array
of molecular storage elements. An address decoder receives a coded
address and generates word line signals corresponding to the coded
address. A word line driver is coupled to the address decoder and
produces amplified word line signals. The amplified word line
signals control switches that selectively couple members of the
array of molecular storage elements to bit lines. Read/write logic
coupled to the bit lines determines whether the molecular memory
device is in a read mode or a write mode. In a read mode, sense
amplifiers coupled to each bit line detect an electronic state of
the selectively coupled molecular storage elements and produce a
data signal on the bit line indicative of the electronic state of
the selectively coupled molecular storage elements. In a write
mode, the read/write logic drives a data signal onto the bit lines
and the selectively coupled molecular storage elements.
[0201] Another embodiment encompasses devices including logic
integrated with embedded molecular memory devices such as
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and system on chip
(SOC) devices and the like. Such implementations comprise one or
more functional components formed monolithically with and
interconnected to molecular memory devices. The functional
components may comprise solid state electronic devices and/or
molecular electronic devices.
[0202] In particular embodiments, the molecular storage device is
implemented as a stacked structured formed subsequent to and above
a semiconductor substrate having active devices formed therein. In
other embodiments, the molecular storage device is implemented as a
micron or nanometer sized hole in a semiconductor substrate have
active devices formed therein. The molecular storage device is
fabricated using processing techniques that are compatible with the
semiconductor substrate and previously formed active devices in the
semiconductor substrate. The molecular storage device comprises,
for example, an electrochemical cell having two or more electrode
surfaces separated by an electrolyte (e.g., a ceramic or solid
electrolyte). Storage molecules (e.g., molecules having one or more
oxidation states that can be used for storing information) are
coupled to an electrode surface within the electrochemical
cells.
[0203] Other embodiments of the invention include the use of
components independently selected from transistor switching devices
including field effect transistor; a row decoder coupled to the
word line; a column decoder coupled to the bit line; a current
preamplifier connected to the bit line; a sense amplifier connected
to the bit line, an address decoder that receives a coded address
and generates word line signals corresponding to the coded address,
a line driver coupled to the address decoder wherein the line
driver produces amplified word line signals (optionally wherein the
amplified word line signals control switches that selectively
couple members of the array of molecular storage elements to bit
lines), read/write logic coupled to the bit lines, wherein the
read/write logic determines whether the molecular memory devices is
in a read mode or a write mode, sense amplifiers coupled to each
bit line, wherein when the device is in a read mode, sense
amplifiers coupled to each bit line detect an electronic state of
the selectively coupled molecular storage elements and produce a
data signal on the bit line indicative of the electronic state of
the selectively coupled molecular storage elements (such that when
the device is in a write mode, the read/write logic drives a data
signal onto the bit lines and the selectively coupled molecular
storage elements) electrolyte layers; and combinations thereof.
[0204] Further embodiments encompass the second electrode being
coupled to ground, and the bit and word lines being either
perpendicular or parallel.
[0205] Additional embodiments have the memory arrays of the
invention comprising volatile memory such as DRAM or SRAM, or
non-volatile memory such as Flash or ferroelectric memory.
[0206] A further embodiment provides arrays wherein the molecular
storage device comprises an attachment layer formed on the first
electrode, wherein the attachment layer comprises an opening and
wherein the molecular material is in the opening and electronically
coupled to the second electrode layer and an electrolyte layer
formed on the attachment layer.
[0207] Another embodiment encompasses a monolithically integrated
device comprising logic devices configured to perform a particular
function and embedded molecular memory devices of the invention
coupled to the logic devices. The device may optionally comprise an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system on chip
(SOC), a solid state electronic devices or molecular electronic
devices.
[0208] The memory devices of this invention can be fabricated using
standard methods well known to those of skill in the art. In a
preferred embodiment, the electrode layer(s) are applied to a
suitable substrate (e.g., silica, glass, plastic, ceramic, etc.)
according to standard well known methods (see, e.g., Rai-Choudhury
(1997) The Handbook of Microlithography, Micromachining, and
Microfabrication, SPIE Optical Engineering Press; Bard &
Faulkner (1997) Fundamentals of Microfabrication). A variety of
techniques are described below and also in U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,212,093; 6,728,129; 6,451,942; 6,777,516; 6,381,169; 6,208,553;
6,657,884; 6,272,038; 6,484,394; and U.S. Ser. Nos. 10/040,059;
10/682,868; 10/445,977; 10/834,630; 10/135,220; 10/723,315;
10/456,321; 10/376,865; and U.S. Publication No. 20070123618, all
of which are expressly incorporated by reference, in particular for
the fabrication techniques outlined therein.
[0209] There are a wide variety of device and systems architectures
that benefit from the use of molecular memory.
[0210] Memory devices are operated by receiving an N-bit row
address into row address decoder and an M-bit column address into
column address decoder. The row address decoder generates a signal
on one word line. Word lines may include word line driver circuitry
that drives a high current signal onto word lines. Because word
lines tend to be long, thin conductors that stretch across much of
the chip surface, it requires significant current and large power
switches to drive a word lines signal. As a result, line driver
circuits are often provided with power supply in addition to power
supply circuits (not shown) that provide operating power for the
other logic. Word line drivers, therefore, tend to involve large
components and the high speed switching of large currents tends to
create noise, stress the limits of power supplies and power
regulators, and stress isolation structures.
[0211] In a conventional memory array there are more columns (bit
lines) than rows (word lines) because during refresh operations,
each word line is activated to refresh all of storage elements
coupled to that word line. Accordingly, the fewer the number of
rows, the less time it takes to refresh all of the rows. One
feature of the present invention is that the molecular memory
elements can be configured to exhibit significantly longer data
retention than typical capacitors, in the order of tens, hundreds,
thousands or effectively, unlimited seconds. Hence, the refresh
cycle can be performed orders of magnitude less frequently or
omitted altogether. Accordingly, refresh considerations that
actually affect the physical layout of a memory array can be
relaxed and arrays of various geometry can be implemented. For
example, memory array can readily be manufactured with a larger
number of word lines, which will make each word line shorter. As a
result, word line driver circuits can be made smaller or eliminated
because less current is required to drive each word line at a high
speed. Alternatively or in addition, shorter word lines can be
driven faster to improve read/write access times. As yet another
alternative, each row of memory locations can be provided with
multiple word lines to provide a mechanism for storing multiple
states of information in each memory location.
[0212] Sense amplifiers are coupled to each bit line and operate to
detect signals on bit lines 109 that indicate the state of a memory
element coupled to that bit line, and amplify that state to an
appropriate logic level signal. In one embodiment, sense amplifiers
may be implemented with substantially conventional designs as such
conventional designs will operate to detect and amplify signals
from a molecular memory element. Alternatively, unlike conventional
capacitors, some molecular storage elements provide very distinct
signals indicating their state. These distinct signals may reduce
the need for conventional sense amplifier logic as the state signal
from a molecular storage device can be more readily and reliably
latched into buffers of read/write logic than can signals stored in
conventional capacitors. That is, the present invention can provide
devices which are sufficiently large as to obviate the need for a
sense amplifier.
[0213] Read/write logic includes circuitry for placing the memory
device in a read or write state. In a read state, data from
molecular array is placed on bit lines (with or without the
operation of sense amplifiers), and captured by buffers/latches in
read/write logic. Column address decoder will select which bit
lines are active in a particular read operation. In a write
operation, read/write logic drives data signals onto the selected
bit lines such that when a word line is activated, that data
overwrites any data already stored in the addressed memory
element(s).
[0214] A refresh operation is substantially similar to a read
operation; however, the word lines are driven by refresh circuitry
(not shown) rather than by externally applied addresses. In a
refresh operation, sense amplifiers, if used, drive the bit lines
to signal levels indicating the current state of the memory
elements and that value is automatically written back to the memory
elements. Unlike a read operation, the state of bit lines is not
coupled to read/write logic during a refresh. This operation is
only required if the charge retention time of the molecules used is
less than the operational life of the device used, for example, on
the order of 10 years for Flash memory.
[0215] In an exemplary embedded system that comprises a central
processing unit and molecular memory, a memory bus couples a CPU
and molecular memory device to exchange address, data, and control
signals. Optionally, embedded system may also contain conventional
memory coupled to memory bus. Conventional memory may include
random access memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM and the like), or
read only memory (e.g., ROM, EPROM, EEPROM and the like). These
other types of memory may be useful for caching data molecular
memory device, storing operating system or BIOS files, and the
like. Embedded system may include one or more input/output (I/O)
interfaces that enable CPU to communicate with external devices and
systems. I/O interface may be implemented by serial ports, parallel
ports, radio frequency ports, optical ports, infrared ports and the
like. Further, interface may be configured to communicate using any
available protocol including packet-based protocols.
[0216] Batteries
[0217] Phosphonium ionic liquids and compositions according to
embodiments of the present invention are well suited as
electrolytes in battery applications. In one embodiment, a battery
is provided comprising: a positive electrode, a negative electrode,
a separator between said positive and negative electrode; and an
electrolyte. The electrolyte is comprised of an ionic liquid
composition, the ionic liquid composition comprising: one or more
phosphonium based cations of the general formula:
R.sup.1R.sup.2R.sup.3R.sup.4P
wherein: R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are optional and
each independently a substituent group; and one or more anions. In
another embodiment, the electrolyte is characterized as an ionic
liquid composition having one or more phosphine based cations, and
one or more anions, wherein the ionic liquid composition exhibits
thermodynamic stability up to a temperature of approximately
375.degree. C. or greater, and ionic conductivity up to 10 mS/cm.
In some embodiments, the ionic liquid composition is doped, such as
for example with lithium. In another embodiment, the ionic liquid
composition is used as a fuel cell membrane.
[0218] Electrolytic Films
[0219] Phosphonium ionic liquids and compositions according to
embodiments of the present invention are well suited as
electrolytic films. In one embodiment, an electrolytic film is
provided comprising: a phosphonium ionic liquid composition applied
to a substrate. In one example, the electrolytic film is formed by
providing the phosphonium ionic liquid of the present invention
together with a solvent. The ionic liquid and solvent are applied
to a substrate by any suitable means, such as by spin coating, and
the like. Then substrate is then heated to remove the solvent,
leaving the electrolytic or ionically-conducting film. In other
embodiments, solutions of ionic liquids and polymers, in suitable
solvents, are coated onto substrates, such as by spin coating, and
then the solvent is evaporated. This results in the formation of
conductive ionic liquid-polymer gels/film. Such films are
particularly suitable as battery electrolytes and fuel cell
membranes.
[0220] Heat Transfer Medium
[0221] The desirable properties of high thermodynamic stability,
low volatility and wide liquidus of the phosphonium ionic liquids
of the present invention are well suited as heat transfer medium.
In this embodiment, high conductivity is not as important, except
in the instance of fuel cells and DSSC applications. Some
embodiments of the present invention provide a heat transfer
medium, comprising an ionic liquid composition comprising: one or
more phosphine based cations, and one or more anions, wherein the
ionic liquid composition exhibits thermodynamic stability up to a
temperature of approximately 375.degree. C. In some embodiments,
the heat transfer medium of the invention is a high temperature
reaction media. In another embodiment, the heat transfer medium of
the invention is an extraction media.
[0222] Other Applications
[0223] The phosphonium ionic liquids of the present invention find
use in additional applications. In one exemplary embodiment, an
embedded capacitor is proved. In one embodiment the embedded
capacitor is comprised of a dielectric disposed between two
electrodes, where the dielectric is comprised of an electrolytic
film of a phosphonium ionic composition as described above. The
embedded capacitor of the present invention may be embedded in an
integrated circuit package. Further embodiments include "on-board"
capacitor arrangements.
Examples
[0224] Embodiments of the present invention are now described in
further detail with reference to specific Examples. The Examples
provided below are intended for illustration purposes only and in
no way limit the scope and/or teaching of the invention.
[0225] In general, Phosphonuim ionic liquids were prepared by
either metathesis reactions of the appropriately substituted
phosphonium solid salt with the appropriately substituted metal
salt, or by reaction of appropriately substituted phosphine
precursors with an appropriately substituted anion precursor. FIGS.
1 to 4 illustrate reaction schemes to make four exemplary
embodiments of phosphonium ionic liquids of the present
invention.
Example 1
[0226] Phosphonium ionic liquids were prepared. AgSO.sub.3CF.sub.3
was charged into a 50 ml round bottom (Rb) flask and assembled to a
3 cm swivel frit. The first was evacuated and brought into a glove
box. In the glove box, di-n-proply ethyl methyl phosphonium iodide
was added and the first re-assembled, brought to the vacuum line,
evacuated, and anydrous THF was vacuum transferred in. The flask
was allowed to warm to room temperature and was then heated to
40.degree. C. for 2 hours. This resulted in the formation of a
light green bead-like solid. This solid was removed by filtration.
This yielded a pearly, opalescent solution. Volatile materials were
removed under high vacuum with heating using a 30.degree. C. hot
water bath. This resulted in a white crystalline material with a
yield of 0.470 g. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was performed on
the material and the results are shown in FIG. 5.
Example 2
[0227] Further phosphonium ionic liquids were prepared. Di-n-propyl
ethyl methyl phosphonium iodide was added to a 100 ml Rb flask in a
glove box, then removed and dissolved in 50 ml of DI H.sub.2O. To
this solution, AgO.sub.2CCF.sub.3 was added, immediately yielding a
yellow, bead-like precipitate. After stirring for 2 hours, AgI was
removed by filtration and the cake was washed 3 times with 5 ml
each of DI H.sub.2O. The bulk water was removed on the rotary
evaporator. This yielded a clear, low viscosity liquid which was
then dried under high vacuum with heating and stirring. This
resulted in solidification of the material. Gentle warming of the
white solid in a warm water bath resulted in a liquid which
appeared to melt just above room temperature. This experiment
yielded 0.410 g of material. The reaction scheme is depicted in
FIG. 6A. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and evolved gas analysis
tests were performed on the material and the results are shown in
FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C, respectively.
Example 3
[0228] In this example, di-n-propyl ethyl methyl phosphonium iodide
was added to a 100 ml Rb flask in a glove box, and then brought out
of the fume hood and dissolved in 70 ml MeOH. Next,
AgO.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 was added, immediately giving a
yellow colored slurry. After stirring for 3 hours the solids were
moved by filtration, the bulk MeOH removed by rotary evaporation
and the remaining residue dried under high vacuum. This gave a
yellow, gel-like slushy material. "Liquid" type crystals were
observed forming on the sides of the Rb flask, when then "melted"
away upon scraping of the flask. This experiment yielded 0.618 g of
material. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was performed on the
material and the results are shown in FIG. 7A. Evolved Gas Analysis
(EGA) was also performed and the results are shown in FIG. 7B.
Example 4
[0229] A pressure flask was brought into the glovebox and charged
with 0.100 g of P(CH.sub.2OH).sub.3 followed by 5 mL of THF-d8.
Once the solid was dissolved the Me.sub.2SO.sub.4 was added. The
flask was then sealed and brought out of the glovebox. It was
heated in a 110.degree. C. oil bath for 10 minutes and then cooled,
brought back into the glovebox, and a 1 mL aliquot removed for
.sup.1H NMR. The reaction scheme is illustrated in FIG. 8A. The
.sup.1H NMR spectrum is shown in FIG. 8B.
Example 5
[0230] In this experiment, 1-ethyl-1-methyl phospholanium nitrate
was added to a 100 ml 14/20 Rb flask in a glove box. To this
KC(CN).sub.3 was added and then the Rb was assembled to a 3 cm
swivel frit. The frit was brought out to he line and CHCl.sub.3 was
vacuum transferred in. The flask was allowed to stir for 12 hours.
A gooey brown material was observed on the bottom of the flask. The
solution was filtered giving a pearly, opalescent filtrate from
which brown oil separated out. The brown material was washed 2
times with recycled CHCl3 causing it to become whiter and more
granular. All volatile components were removed under high vacuum,
giving a low viscosity brown oil. This experiment yielded 1.52 g of
material. The reaction scheme is shown in FIG. 9A.
Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was performed on the material and
the results are shown in FIG. 9B.
Example 6
[0231] In this experiment 1-ethyl-1-methyl phosphorinanium iodide
was added to a 100 ml Rb flask in a glove box and then brought out
to a fume hood where it was dissolved in 70 ml MeOH. Next,
AgO.sub.2CCF.sub.2CF.sub.2CF.sub.3 was added, immediately giving a
yellow precipitate. The flask was stirred for 18 hours and then the
solids removed by filtration. Bulk MeOH was removed by rotary
evaporation and the residual dried under high vacuum. This
procedure gave an off-white, yellow-tinted solid. This experiment
yielded 0.620 g of material. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was
performed on the material and the results are shown in FIG. 10.
Example 7
[0232] In another experiment, 1-butyl-1-ethyl phospholanium iodide
was added to a Rb flask in a fume hood, and then dissolved in water
and stirred. AgO.sub.3SCF.sub.3 was added and a yellow precipitate
formed immediately. The flask was stirred for 2 hours and then
vacuum filtered. The solution foamed during filtration, and a milky
substance was observed after filtration. The material was rotary
evaporated and the residue dried under vacuum on an oil bath which
melted the solid. This experiment yielded 0.490 g of material.
Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was performed on the material and
the results are shown in FIG. 11.
Example 8
[0233] In a further experiment, 1-butyl-1-ethyl phosphorinanium
iodide was added to a flask in a fume hood. MeOH was added and then
the flask was stirred for 15 minutes. Silver p-toluene sulfonate
was added. The flask was stirred for 4 hours. A yellow precipitate
formed. The material was gravity filtered and then rotary
evaporated. The material was dried under vacuum, resulting in a
liquid This experiment yielded 0.253 g of material. The reaction
scheme is shown in FIG. 12A. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was
performed on the material and the results are shown in FIG.
12B.
[0234] The present invention is not to be limited in scope by the
specific embodiments disclosed in the examples which are intended
as illustrations of a few aspects of the invention and any
embodiments which are functionally equivalent are within the scope
of this invention. Indeed, various modifications of the invention
in addition to those shown and described herein will become
apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to fall
within the appended claims.
[0235] A number of references have been cited, the entire
disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
* * * * *